Some people believe that medicinal plants or herbal remedies are not to be trusted, and while that's true for a good number of them, there are some that have been backed up by clinical trials. More herbs and plant-based medicines are getting positive reviews for their effectiveness.
Aloe Vera
The aloe vera plant can be used straight from the garden by breaking off a succulent stem and applying the clear gel straight to the skin irritation or burn. Aloe taken orally produces a laxative effect and helps heal and sooth skin irritations and wounds topically. Sunburn products use aloe to help relieve the burn and to help hydrate the skin so that it peels less. Side effects of oral use of aloe use include diarrhea and stomach cramps. Side effects for topical aloe use has not been seen. Aloe alters glucose monitoring in diabetics as it might lower blood sugar levels.
St. John's Wort
St. John's wort, or Hypericum perforatum, has been used since ancient Greek times. It is used for sedative effects, depression and sleep disorders. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is testing the use of St. John's wort for many mental conditions in clinical trials as of 2010. Side effects include photosensitivity, dry mouth, headache, fatigue and gastrointestinal issues. Interaction with some pharmaceutical drugs has occurred, especially with antidepressants, cyclosporine, digoxin, birth control, warfarin, irinotecan, and indinavir.
Green Tea
Green tea, or Camellia sinensis, is used for an array of ailments, including cancer, sun damage and high cholesterol. According to NCCAM, studies suggest it may slow the growth of some cancers in the lab but in people it has mixed results. It is safe in most people but rare liver damage has been reported. Drinking green tea reduces the effectiveness of Warfarin because of the vitamin K in the green tea. Because of the caffeine in it, side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset, insomnia and irritability.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed and flaxseed oil, or Linum usitatissimum, is used for arthritis, menopause symptoms, cholesterol lowering, cancer preventatives and as a laxative. Flaxseed has plant estrogens, called lignans, while the oil does not. NCCAM is studying the effects on cholesterol and heart disease with flaxseed as a preventative. Flaxseed must be given with plenty of water. As a fiber source, it can cause constipation if plenty of water is not taken.
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